Birmingham City University Review: A Complete Guide
Thinking about studying at Birmingham City University? This review covers what you really need to know. This includes courses, tuition fees, campus life, student support, and how BCU compares to other UK universities. Whether you’re a local student or coming from abroad, we break down what to expect so you can decide if BCU is the right fit for you.
Birmingham City University Summary
- City: Birmingham
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Graduate Employment Rate：
73% within 15 months of graduation.
Table of Contents
Overview of Birmingham City University
Birmingham City University (BCU) is a modern, career-focused university in the heart of Birmingham, the UK’s second-largest city. With over 30,000 students from more than 100 countries, BCU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including strong options in business, media, health, engineering, and the arts.
The university has invested heavily in its facilities, especially at the City Centre Campus, which houses the impressive Parkside Building and Curzon Building. It maintains strong links with industry, offering work placements and real-world projects to help students build practical skills.
BCU is known for being inclusive and supportive, with various services aimed at helping international students settle in and succeed. It’s not as academically competitive as top-ranked universities, but it’s a solid option for students looking for hands-on experience, modern facilities, and an affordable lifestyle in a major UK city. Read on to find out more about this university.
Birmingham City University Rankings 2026
In the 2026 UK rankings, Birmingham City University is placed 102nd in the UK.
Here’s a closer look at the key indicators:
Overall score: 577 (92nd place). Slight drop by 2 spots compared to last year.
Student satisfaction: 3.08 out of 4 (50th). This is a strong point for BCU and has improved by 14 places, suggesting students are generally happy with their experience.
Entry standards: Ranked 68th. Indicates moderate academic entry requirements.
Research quality and intensity: 93rd and 119th respectively. BCU scores low here, so it may not suit students focused on academic research.
Facilities spend: Ranked 98th. Fairly low investment compared to other UK universities.
Academic services spend: 100th. Below average, but improved by 12 places.
Student–staff ratio: 17.1 (84th). On the higher side, meaning larger class sizes.
Continuation rate: 91.4% (79th). Most students stay on after first year.
Graduate outcomes: 90th, with 72.5% in good jobs or further study.
Graduate prospects – on track: 92nd. This dropped by 31 places, a red flag for employability.
Birmingham City University Courses and Programmes
Undergraduate Courses in Birmingham City University
Birmingham City University (BCU) offers a diverse range of over 150 undergraduate courses across various disciplines. These programmes are designed to equip students with practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge. Below is an overview of the undergraduate courses available at BCU:
Business and Finance
- Accounting and Finance
- Business Management
- Economics
- Marketing
- Digital Marketing
- Finance
Computing and Digital Technologies
- Computer Science
- Software Engineering
- Computer Networks and Security
- Artificial Intelligence
- Digital Media Technology
- Business Information Technology
Engineering and Built Environment
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Architectural Technology
- Construction Management
- Real Estate
Arts, Design, and Media
- Architecture
- Graphic Design
- Fashion Design
- Photography
- Film Production
- Game Design
- Visual Communication
Health and Life Sciences
- Adult Nursing
- Midwifery
- Paramedic Science
- Biomedical Sciences
- Radiography
- Public Health
Education and Social Sciences
- Education Studies
- Primary Education with QTS
- Social Work
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Criminology
Law and Criminology
- Law LLB
- Law with Criminology
- Law with Business
- Policing
Performing Arts
- Acting
- Music Technology
- Theatre Studies
- Dance
Postgraduate Courses in Birmingham City University
Business and Management
- Accounting and Finance – MSc
- Management and International Business – MSc
- Project Management – MSc
- International Business Law – LLM
- International Human Rights – LLM
Computing and Digital Technologies
- Advanced Computer Science – MSc
- Artificial Intelligence – MSc
Engineering and Built Environment
- Architecture (RIBA Part 2) – MArch
- Architectural Practice (RIBA Part 3 Exemption) – PgDip
- Automotive Engineering – MSc
Health and Life Sciences
- Advanced Clinical Practice – MSc
- Advancing Diabetes Care – MSc
- Public Health – MPH
Arts, Design, and Media
- Acting – MA / MFA
- Art and Design (Interdisciplinary Practices) – MA
- Arts and Education Practices – MA
- Arts and Project Management – MA
Education and Social Sciences
- Applied Child Psychology – MSc
- Social Work – MSc
Birmingham City University Entry Deadline
| Date | What Happens |
| 13 May 2025 | Applications open. Students can start filling in their UCAS forms. |
| 2 Sep 2025 | Students can start submitting completed applications to UCAS. |
| 15 Oct 2025 (6pm) | Deadline for Oxford, Cambridge, and most medicine, dentistry, vet courses. |
| 14 Jan 2026 (6pm) | Main deadline for most undergraduate courses. |
| 26 Feb 2026 | UCAS Extra opens. Students with no offers can apply for more courses. |
| 30 Jun 2026 (6pm) | Last date to apply before Clearing. After this, applications go to Clearing. |
| 5 Jul 2026 | Clearing opens. Students can view and apply to available places. |
| 24 Sep 2026 | Final deadline to apply for 2026 entry. |
| 19 Oct 2026 | Last date to add a Clearing choice. |
Birmingham City University Entry Requirements
Undergraduate Entry
Birmingham City University (BCU) accepts a range of qualifications for undergraduate courses. Applicants typically need:
- A-Levels, BTECs, or equivalent qualifications.
- For T Level applicants, a Merit award with at least a grade B in the core component is usually required.
- GCSEs in English and Maths at grade C/4 or above.
Specific courses may have additional requirements, so it’s essential to check individual course pages for detailed criteria.
Postgraduate Entry
For postgraduate taught courses, BCU generally requires:
- A UK honours degree or equivalent international qualification.
- Two references: one academic and one professional.
- A personal statement outlining your motivation and suitability for the course.
Some programmes may have specific prerequisites or require relevant work experience.
BCU English Language Requirements
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency through one of the following:
- IELTS with a minimum score of 5.5.
- A Secure English Language Test (SELT) approved by UK Visas and Immigration.
- Recognised in-country English qualifications.
- Certain nationalities may be exempt from these requirements.
Alternative Routes
If your qualifications don’t meet direct entry criteria, BCU offers:
- Foundation programmes for undergraduate applicants.
- Pre-Master’s programmes for postgraduate applicants.
These pathways help bridge academic gaps and prepare students for their chosen courses.
Birmingham City University Scholarships
Birmingham City University (BCU) offers a range of scholarships to support students financially. These scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students, with specific criteria and benefits.
BCU Undergraduate Scholarships
International Merit-Based Scholarship: International students enrolling in undergraduate courses for September 2024 may receive up to £2,000 off their first-year tuition fees, based on academic performance.
High Achievers’ Scholarship: UK students applying by 30 June 2025 and achieving 144 UCAS points or more are eligible for a £1,000 scholarship.
Accelerate Scholarship: Available to UK students from lower-income households who enrol via the Accelerate programmes, offering £1,000 paid in three instalments during the first year.
Santander Scholarship: In collaboration with Santander Universities, BCU offers scholarships to support students from under-represented groups, including those from low-income backgrounds, ethnic minorities, and care leavers.
BCU Postgraduate Scholarships
International Merit-Based Scholarship: International postgraduate students enrolling in September 2024 can receive tuition fee discounts based on their academic qualifications:
£2,000 for a First-Class degree
£1,500 for a Second-Class Upper Division (2:1)
£1,000 for a Second-Class Lower Division (2:2)
Graduate Scholarship: BCU alumni enrolling in eligible full-time or part-time Master’s or PhD courses for the first time in 2024/25 or 2025/26 may receive a 20% fee reduction.
MA Musicology Scholarship: Two scholarships worth £5,000 each are available for both UK and international applicants pursuing full-time or part-time MA Musicology in September 2025.
Birmingham City University Facilities
Birmingham City University (BCU) has invested over £400 million in its campuses to provide students with modern, industry-standard facilities. These resources are designed to offer practical, hands-on learning experiences across various disciplines.
BCU City Centre Campus
Parkside Building: Home to the Faculty of Arts, Design and Media, it includes the Parkside Media House, offering advanced media production facilities.
Curzon Building: Houses the Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences, featuring psychology labs, a mock courtroom, and a City trading room.
Royal Birmingham Conservatoire: A £57 million facility providing state-of-the-art teaching and performance spaces for music students.
Vittoria Street: Hosts the School of Jewellery, the largest in Europe, equipped with specialised workshops and studios.
Margaret Street: Accommodates the School of Art within a Grade I listed building, combining historic architecture with modern learning spaces.
BCU City South Campus
Dedicated to Health, Education, and Life Sciences, this £41 million campus offers simulated healthcare environments, including a mock operating theatre, hospital wards, a fully equipped birthing room, and a virtual radiotherapy suite.
Alexander Stadium
A £5 million investment has transformed parts of this iconic venue into specialist laboratories and facilities for Sports and Exercise Science courses.
Student Accommodation near Birmingham City University
Birmingham City University (BCU) offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. These include university-managed halls and partner accommodations, all located within Birmingham’s city centre or near the City South Campus.
City Centre Accommodation
Ideal for students attending the City Centre Campus, these options provide easy access to university facilities and the city’s amenities:
University Locks: Located next to the Curzon Building, offering en-suite rooms and music practice spaces. Prices start from £165.84 per week.
Bentley House: A 10-minute walk from the city centre, featuring en-suite rooms, a gym, and social spaces. Prices start from £179 per week.
Jennens Court: Situated next to Millennium Point, offering en-suite rooms with study areas.
The Heights: Managed by Student Roost, this accommodation includes a gym and communal areas. Prices start from £157 per week.
Lakeside: Close to the shopping district, providing en-suite rooms and social spaces. Prices start from £169 per week.
Staniforth House: Offers en-suite rooms with access to a garden courtyard. Prices start from £175 per week.
The Old Fire Station: A unique setting with studio and en-suite rooms, located five minutes from the city centre. Prices start from £176 per week.
City South Accommodation
Suitable for students based at the City South Campus:
Queens Hospital Close: Located on Bath Row, offering en-suite rooms. Prices start from £150 per week.
Beech Gardens: A 15-minute walk from the campus, providing shared and studio rooms. Prices start from £155 per week.
Hamstead Campus: Situated outside the city centre, accommodating over 500 students with various room types. Prices start from £115 per week.
Additional Information
Facilities: Most accommodations offer en-suite rooms, social and study areas, laundry facilities, and some include gyms.
Application: First-year, full-time home, EU, and international students are guaranteed university accommodation if they accept an offer in the main application cycle and apply by the deadline.
Birmingham City University MBA
Birmingham City University offers a full-time International MBA designed for students with managerial experience who want to step up to senior leadership roles. The programme runs for one year and is taught at the City Centre Campus.
The course focuses on practical business challenges, leadership, and strategy. Students study key areas such as global marketing, corporate finance, innovation, and sustainable business practices. The curriculum is internationally focused and supports students aiming to work in global companies or start their own ventures.
The MBA includes hands-on projects, case studies, and the chance to work with real businesses. Students also benefit from career support and networking opportunities with professionals and alumni.
Applicants typically need an undergraduate degree and at least two years of relevant work experience. A personal statement and reference are also required.
Birmingham City University PhD
Birmingham City University (BCU) offers a diverse range of PhD programmes across multiple disciplines. These programmes are designed for individuals aiming to contribute original research to their fields.
Available PhD Areas:
- Social Sciences: Research opportunities in criminology, psychology, and sociology.
- Computing: Focus on areas like software engineering, data science, and cybersecurity.
- Engineering: Explore topics in civil, mechanical, and electronic engineering.
- Built Environment: Research in architecture, urban planning, and construction management.
- Education: Investigate educational practices, policies, and pedagogies.
- English: Study literature, linguistics, and creative writing.
- Health: Engage in research related to public health, nursing, and healthcare management.
- Music and Performing Arts: Pursue research in performance, composition, and musicology.
Popular Courses in Birmingham City University
Birmingham City University Architecture
Birmingham City University’s BA (Hons) Architecture is a three-year, RIBA Part 1-accredited degree that blends design, theory, and practical experience. Students engage in studio-based projects, exploring urban design, sustainability, and digital modelling. The course includes a two-week industry placement in the second year, offering real-world exposure. Graduates have secured positions with firms like MAKE, Grimshaw Architects, and Glenn Howells Architects. Entry requires a strong portfolio and 112 UCAS points.
Birmingham City University Computer Science
Birmingham City University’s BSc (Hons) Computer Science is a three-year, full-time degree designed to equip students with the skills needed for careers in software engineering and related fields. The curriculum covers core areas such as computer programming, data structures, algorithms, information systems, computer networks, and computer architecture.
In the final year, students explore specialised subjects like artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and wearable computing. An individual project allows students to demonstrate their technical skills and general employability, simulating typical graduate workplace tasks.
The course is delivered at the university’s £70 million STEAMhouse facility, a centre for technology, innovation, and business development. Students have access to industry-standard labs and resources, including affiliations with Cisco Systems, Microsoft Academy Centre, and Amazon Web Services Academy.
Birmingham City University Nursing
Birmingham City University’s BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing is a three-year full-time degree. It prepares students to register as qualified adult nurses with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).
The course is split evenly between theory and hands-on practice. Students take clinical placements in hospitals and community settings across Birmingham and the West Midlands. On campus, students train in realistic environments using high-tech simulation equipment.
Applicants usually need 120 UCAS points. An interview, DBS check, and health screening are also required.
Intakes are available in both September and January. Eligible students may receive at least £5,000 per year through the NHS Learning Support Fund.
Birmingham City University Biomedical Science
The BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science course at Birmingham City University provides an in-depth understanding of human biology and disease. Accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), it covers clinical biochemistry, molecular genetics, cell biology, infection and immunity, and blood science. Students gain practical experience in state-of-the-art laboratories, using industry-standard equipment to develop essential scientific skills. The course prepares graduates for careers in healthcare, medical research, and the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.
Birmingham City University Psychology
The BSc (Hons) Psychology course at Birmingham City University offers a comprehensive exploration of the mind, brain, and behaviour. Students engage with six core areas of psychology, gaining insights into how these domains influence human experience and interaction. The curriculum emphasises both quantitative and qualitative research methods, equipping graduates with essential skills for scientific inquiry. Additionally, the course provides optional modules, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests and career aspirations.
BCU University Contact
- Official website: https://www.bcu.ac.uk/
- Address: 4 Cardigan St
- General information for international students: +44 (0)121 331 5000
